WCFB carb problems

[Mike B.]

As best I can tell on my '61 270 hp I am running I think '57 duals, but that is another story, and am cleaning and repairing with new kit due to massive leaking after setting up too long. Anyway my question is can the plugs as seen in pics attached be repaired without paying for another carb? If so how? Thanks, Mike

[Mark E.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

Photos............?

[Mike B.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

I just added the pics. tough getting old!

[Gene M.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

Mike,
In photos it looks like the aluminum well plugs are not seated. I suggest replace them and use Locktite on them as a extra measure against leaks.

WCFB are generally excellent carbs against leaks. Not like Holley........

[Mike B.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

thanks and that begs the question, where do you buy them and are there any instructions on how to remove and install same? or can you tap on them and seal with JB Weld?

[Frank D.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

Why do you think you need to mess with them at all ?

Here is my 63 250hp WCFB literally fresh out of the wrapper from restoration by Daytona Parts in Florida (note the Welch plugs)...

If you post the air horn and main body numbers....we can tell you what carbs you have most likely..

If you are determined to replace those small plugs you can talk to Ron or Tim at Daytona Parts in Florida....they have whole bins of those plugs of all different sizes (seen 'em personally) and may send you some...

[Gene M.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

Why do you think you need to mess with them at all ?

Here is my 63 250hp WCFB literally fresh out of the wrapper from restoration by Daytona Parts in Florida (note the Welch plugs)...

If you post the air horn and main body numbers....we can tell you what carbs you have most likely..

If you are determined to replace those small plugs you can talk to Ron or Tim at Daytona Parts in Florida....they have whole bins of those plugs of all different sizes (seen 'em personally) and may send you some...

My carb has the original plugs and they sit up tight. I would not use epoxy, it's too thick not made for tight fitting parts as Locktite is the correct in this close fitting application.

[Mike B.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

you can tell from pics they have been leaking and the rear carb which I have not done yet was actually dripping while running when I discovered the front carb belching gas all over the intake. After rebuilding the front carb my plugs look just like the pic you sent as they are clean so no plans to mess with these. Just the bad leaker on rear carb when I rebuild it next. By the way the front carb body is 0-108 with throttle plate #1386 and the air horn # has been ground off only the 6 remains. The rear carb is 0-1108 and have not seen plate # yet but air horn is 6-1354. I am guessing 57??? Thanks, Mike

[Mike B.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

my idea (for what its worth) for JB Weld was to cover the plug only in order to stop the leaking. the locktite would be if replace.

[Jim D.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

my idea (for what its worth) for JB Weld was to cover the plug only in order to stop the leaking. the locktite would be if replace.

That will probably work just fine. Follow Gene's advice if you replace them. Disregard the advice of "self proclaimed experts" that have never actually worked on one (just like distributors).

[Dan B.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

I have rebuilt many carbs and the better kits usually come with new plugs. The plugs being aluminum, I have seen variations between carbs with some of the plugs fully seated and some with a fingernail width between the lip and carb, Neither leaked. To get them flush, you would have to apply additional force and they would flatten slightly and snug up. They don't usually leak on their own unless thay have been messed with. You might try carefully tightening them flush with a small socket and light hammer. That should expand them a bit and may do the trick for you.

[Mike B.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

Obviously the kits may not be the better ones cause they don't have the plugs. and even the last time (45 years ago different car) that I rebuilt WCFB's they did not have plugs either. Where do you buy your kits for future reference? The leakers I have , have the gap you mention. I was thinking that rather than trying to reseat and failing I would just tap as suggested and use JB for insurance as I am not trying for originality. Just don't want it to catch fire. Thanks for your input and if you will let me know the kits you use I would appreciate it.

[Dan B.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

Federated, Napa Echlin, Hygrade all have the plugs included. The Federated kit came from one of the vendors.

I'd try tightening the plugs and running it to see if that takes care of the leak. Not a fan of JB weld on a carb plug personally. If it still leaks, I'd prefer to get new plugs and use a little sealer with them.

[Mike B.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

thanks for heads up. I will try your approach. nothing ventured nothing gained, right?

[Mike B.]

Re: WCFB carb problems

A question please. both of these carbs did not have the check ball in the carb. Like I said before it has been a long time since rebuilding a WCFB I don't remember if the others did or did not. The ball is in the kit but kit fits several applications and the directions show a ball but not clear where it belong or if needed for ALL applications. I believe these 2 carbs to be '57 variety , would they have had a check ball and where would it have been? Thanks, MIke